Brand-new brunches, destination dining, and a visit to a winter wonderland are just some of the fun things you can experience this weekend.
It’s almost Christmas, which means we have plenty of festive inspiration for you. So start planning your weekend of destination dining, nightlife and entertainment across Dubai – you can thank us later.
Friday 13 December
Visit the Hello Kitty pop-up at Rascals Bakehouse
It’s time to say Konnichiwa to the Rascals Bakehouse Hello Kitty pop-up. At the Rascals Bakehouse Hello Kitty pop-up, the windows include an eye-catching Hello Kitty image, drinks are served in pink and green striped cups with a Hello Kitty face, and pretty pastries have been created to celebrate the occasion. Plus, special merchandise is available with Rascals Deli and Hello Kitty branding. The limited edition Hello Kitty items include Strawberry Croissants, Victoria Cake and Hello Kitty Bow Ties filled with Raspberry Cheesecake, Pistachio or Nutella. The limited edition drinks include the Strawberry Dream and The Kawaii, which combines matcha and strawberries.
GO: Follow @rascalssbakehouse on Instagram for more information.
Enjoy a beachfront dining experience
Nestled against the iconic backdrop of the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, Shimmers has firmly established itself as one of Dubai’s premier beach restaurants. Recently reimagined, the venue blends relaxed charm with a sophisticated Greek-Mediterranean menu featuring signature dishes like Lobster Orzo paired beautifully with innovative cocktails, ensuring a dining experience that’s as refined as it is memorable. With its breathtaking beachfront setting, Shimmers offers stunning sunset views accompanied by curated DJ vibes, making it ideal for both daytime lounging and elegant evening dining.
GO: Visit jumeirah.com/shimmers or call 800 323 232 for reservations and more information.
Party at a FACT award-winner
Get ready for an electrifying night as Miss Lily’s brings the heat with André Power, the globally acclaimed Soulection DJ. Kicking off the evening, resident selector Colione sets the mood with his signature beats before André Power takes over to deliver an unforgettable set. Before the big night, why not check out Miss Lily’s Jerk Shack at Sole DXB, which serves jerk chicken, oxtail bowls and plenty of patties? Available on Friday 13 October from 9pm.
GO: Visit www.misslilys.com for reservations and more information.
Saturday 14 December
Try the new brunch at Bistro Aamara
At Bistro Aamara, the flavours of the ancient Silk Road come alive. Indulge in a spread of signature dishes complemented by creative cocktails, fine wines, and live entertainment, all set in the heart of Dubai. Highlights include Butter Chicken, Chicken Khao Suey Dumplings, Chicken Tikka Karaage, Cucumber & Tender Coconut Salad, Seafood Bouillabaisse Malai Curry and Lamb Korma. There’s even a gin trolley. Saturdays from 12pm to 4pm. AED 395 (soft beverages) and AED 545 (house beverages).
GO: Visit https://bistroaamara.ae for reservations and more information.
Visit French Riviera Beach
Immerse yourself in the Côte d’Azur charm at French Riviera Beach, a stunning beachfront haven at Jumeirah Al Qasr. Start your day with a serene, sunlit breakfast by the sea, toast to golden hour with expertly crafted cocktails, and indulge in a romantic, starlit dinner with breathtaking ocean views. Featuring Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, lush surroundings, and the iconic backdrop of Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, every moment here is a sensory celebration and the ultimate seaside retreat.
GO: Visit www.jumeirah.com for reservations and more information.
See Ricky Martin live in Dubai
Dubai is turning up the volume with the announcement that Ricky Martin is bringing his “Ricky Martin Live” tour to Coca-Cola Arena. Having spearheaded the “Latin Explosion” of the late 1990s, Ricky Martin is widely recognised for introducing Latin pop to the global mainstream. With his signature high-energy performances, the Latin music icon is known for delivering hit after hit. Fans can expect a dynamic setlist packed with chart-topping favourites like “Livin’ La Vida Loca,” “She Bangs,” and “Vente Pa’ Ca,” alongside fresh tracks from his latest album. Tickets are available now. AED 299 (bronze), AED 399 (silver), AED 499 (platinum), AED 799 (diamond) and AED 999 (golden circle).
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Sunday 15 December
Check out an Emirati manga exhibition
Dubai is a melting pot of cultures promoting exchange and expression within the community. Running until 2 January at Mestaria Gallery, Luffy x Lutfi: Emirati Manga will illuminate the Japanese storytelling tradition with Emirati culture. The exhibition will showcase the works of Emirati artist Abdulla Lutfi, who is known for his black-and-white illustrations and draws inspiration from Abdulla Lutfi’s love for anime, notably the Japanese manga series One Piece. He reimagines the protagonist, Luffy, donning a traditional Emirati kandora.
GO: Visit https://mestaria.art for more information.
Tuck into a terrific tiramisu at Public La Terrazza
How do pizzas and pastas with a view sound to you? If that has got your mouth watering, we have some tasty news. Public La Terrazza has re-opened at the Museum of the Future, bringing comfort food to this classy spot. Breakfast dishes range from healthy to hearty. They include Blueberry Granola, Blueberry Pancakes, Cinnamon French Toast, and Public Acai. While Public has plenty to offer, its tiramisu is definitely the most beloved. Served table-side from a family-size bowl, this dessert is presented along with theatrics by the staff. Topped off with a drizzle — or more if you like — of espresso, this tiramisu is as good as it gets.
GO: Visit https://resto.guru for more information.
Experience the culture at Sole DXB
From December 13 to 15, Sole DXB 2024 returns to Dubai Design District with an unforgettable lineup featuring DJ Questlove, James Blake, Latto, Tems, and The Roots. Over three nights and two days, experience live music, electrifying DJ sets, cutting-edge fashion, film screenings, thought-provoking talks, engaging workshops, sports tournaments, and youth clinics. As the ultimate experiential platform, Sole DXB continues to showcase the world’s leading brands in an unmissable celebration of culture and creativity.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
